Proposal Would Amend The Amendment Process

OTHER NEWS TO NOTE - THE NATION

June 25, 1997

WASHINGTON — Although dozens of proposals to amend the Constitution are introduced every Congress, nearly all fall by the wayside. But congressional Republicans are hoping a proposal for yet another amendment will turn that pattern around. Sponsors say it would make it easier for states to begin the amendment process without depending on Congress. Under a bill introduced Tuesday, states could send an amendment proposal to Congress after it wins approval by two-thirds of the legislatures. It would take a two-thirds vote of the House and Senate to kill it. Finally, the proposed amendment would have to return to the states for ratification by three-fourths of the legislatures.